The new Netflix true crime mini-series Killer Sally revolves around the professional Bodybuilder Sally McNeil, who was convicted of murdering her husband on the eve of Valentine’s day in 1995. The three-part docuseries uncovers the truth behind the conviction, the murder, the final trial and its media coverage.
The series is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Nanette Burstein (Hillary, Going the Distance) and has a total run time of nearly three hours. Moreover, the docuseries primarily features Sally McNeil and her real-life footage, along with the interviews of her family and friends. The series is executively produced by Traci Carlson, Elliott Coley, Richard Peete, and Robert Yapkowitz.
The documentary provides the complete context behind the murder of Ray McNeil by Sally McNeil and is also a commentary on the victims of abuse and domestic violence. Initially, the first episode reveals that the connection between the two professional bodybuilders was a match made in heaven, and almost everything was perfect. However, as the series progresses, we come to know about the real horrors of the abusive relationship.
Sally McNeil married Ray McNeil in the eighties, after her first divorce and formed a family with him along with her two children. The former marine turned professional bodybuilder Ray, chose to give in to his passion while Sally became the breadwinner. She made a living through unconventional means and made sure that there was enough for the gym supplies and the steroids.
During the interview, Sally McNeil reveals that Ray McNeil was an abusive husband and father to her children. He used to abuse them through extreme means and was also engaged in infidelity. Furthermore, the bodybuilder had often choked Sally on numerous occasions.
Therefore, when Ray arrived on the eve of Valentine’s day in 1995, he started to assert force on Sally. That’s when the female bodybuilder realized that she might not survive the choking and immediately went for the shotgun to fire two rounds from the weapon. In her interviews, she states that it was the only choice at that time, and she acted purely in self-defence.
However, during her trial in court, the district attorney convinced the jury that Sally did not act in self-defence but in a complete rage. By pointing out the importance of the second shot as pivotal evidence, the jury was able to form a decision regarding Sally McNeil.
Even though the docu-series presents the other side of the coin, it does not shy away from highlighting the sensationalist media coverage of the case. Which was a strong reason for portraying an image of Killer Sally to the common public. Furthermore, there was also a lack of research on the psychology of physical and emotional abuse in the 90s.
Eventually, Sally McNeil was convicted of murder, and sentenced to 19 years in prison. However, the professional bodybuilder completed a total of 25 years and jail and was released in 2020. In the end, she was relocated by the vet transition services and was also able to find a job to support herself financially.
The incident made Sally lose all the important moments with her daughter and son, along with an integral part of her life. Ultimately, she remarried after some time, in the hope of a better life ahead.
Also Read: Killer Sally: How Long Was Sally McNeil in Jail? Where is She Now?
Watch Killer Sally Trailer Below
You can stream the series on Netflix. Let us know your thoughts about it in the comment section below.
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